South Africa’s former Everton of England midfielder, Steven Pienaar has added his comments to rave reviews trailing Alex Iwobi’s assist for Arsenal’s equalizer against Liverpool last weekend, with a verdict that the youngster’s pass would make his uncle, Austin Okocha smile.
Although the South African icon served a hint that Iwobi’s form means his country will be in trouble when the in-form attacker-cum-midfielder lines out against them in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers next weekend, Pienaar could not do but marvel over the lad’s brilliance.
Pienaar admitted that Iwobi is in remarkable form ahead of the decisive AFCON 2019 qualifier at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg on November 17, but pointed out that he cannot do but gloat over an excellent job.
The 22-year-old Iwobi has been in scintillating form for since the arrival of Unai Emery in place at Arsene Wenger at Emirates Stadium, and Pienaar acknowledged that he would be a huge threat against his country when Bafana Bafana host the Super Eagles at Soccer City.
In Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Liverpool, Iwobi was on as a second half substitute for Henrikh Mkhitaryan in the 68th minute, but still provided the key moment with an assist on Alexandre Lacazette’s goal.
Iwobi gave Lacazette a run on goal after threading a through pass that the Frenchman duly finished off with aplomb, but Pienaar is giving all plaudits to nephew of former Super Eagles’ captain, Jay Jay Okocha.
Pienaar stated: “Every time I watch Iwobi I’m on the edge of my chair Baller.
“That pass from Alex Iwobi was hot. I’m 100% sure Jay Jay is smiling wherever he is.”
